HILO, Hawaii – Hawaii Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve hosted a Bosslift, July 6. Participating employers learned about the 291st Combat Communications Squadron and 1-183rd Aviation missions then divided into two groups for an orientation flight on Blackhawks. “This was an exceptional event! It was great to see how the National Guard trains,” commented a participant.

Since September 11, 2001, more than one million Guard and Reserve service members across the United States have left their families and employers to serve in overseas contingency operations or come to the aid of fellow citizens during natural disasters.

Many of these deployed Guard and Reserve members serve, work, and live on Hawaii Island. These service members come home to their families, communities and employers when they return from their military service. Often, that military service wouldn’t occur without the strong backing from the civilian employers of these brave men and women who serve this great nation.

National Guard and Reserve members bring tremendous skills and capabilities to our workforce, and employer support for their military service is critical to maintaining the strength of our Guard and Reserve units. By valuing the military service of their Guard and Reserve employees, employers are directly supporting the readiness and retention of our All-Volunteer Force, and our national defense.

ESGR is a Department of Defense office that develops and promotes supportive work environments for service members in the National Guard and Reserve through outreach, recognition, and educational opportunities that increase awareness of applicable laws. ESGR also provides assistance in resolving conflicts between Service members and their employers.

For more information about ESGR outreach programs or volunteer opportunities, call 1-800-336-4590 or visit www.ESGR.mil/HI.